Lifera Partners with Novo Nordisk to Localize Insulin Production in Saudi Arabia
In a groundbreaking agreement, Lifera has teamed up with Novo Nordisk, the global leader in insulin production, to establish a local insulin manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia. This partnership, facilitated through Lifera’s subsidiary, SaudiBio, aims to bolster technology transfer and cultivate a skilled workforce capable of aseptic production.
Saudi Arabia: The Future Hub of Biologic Innovator Insulin Production
By 2027, Saudi Arabia is poised to become the first producer of a biologic innovator insulin in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This strategic move towards localizing insulin production not only diversifies the country’s economy but also aligns with Saudi’s Vision 2030 by boosting the biopharmaceutical sector.
Empowering Saudi Arabia’s Biopharma Resilience
Lifera’s mission is centered around enhancing Saudi Arabia’s biopharma resilience and supporting the National Biotechnology Strategy. The localization of insulin production and the development of cutting-edge biomanufacturing capabilities play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.
Driving Economic Growth and Creating High-Skilled Jobs
This monumental achievement in local biopharmaceutical manufacturing not only facilitates knowledge transfer on a global scale but also paves the way for the training of a highly skilled Saudi workforce in aseptic manufacturing. By 2027/28, over 200 high-skilled jobs are expected to be created in Saudi Arabia as a result of this partnership.
Enhancing Healthcare Access and Supply Chain Resilience
Furthermore, this collaboration enhances access to affordable medications and strengthens the nation’s healthcare supply chain. Novo Nordisk Saudi Arabia’s commitment to bringing innovation closer to diabetes patients in Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in the healthcare sector.
Building a Sustainable Future for Diabetes Patients
The announcement of local insulin manufacturing signifies a step towards ensuring sustainable access to innovative medications for individuals living with diabetes. Collaborating with NUPCO, the Local Content and General Procurement Agency (LCGPA), and other key stakeholders, Lifera and Novo Nordisk are dedicated to improving the quality of life for diabetes patients in Saudi Arabia.
Dr. Ibrahim Aljuffali, Chairman of the Lifera Board of Directors, expressed his pride in the partnership, stating, “Lifera is honored to have Novo Nordisk as a partner and is committed to meeting and exceeding their stringent standards. Through this agreement, Lifera is making significant strides towards localizing essential medicine manufacturing in Saudi Arabia and supporting the National Biotechnology Strategy with state-of-the-art biomanufacturing capabilities.”
